Looking to start up a legal research business

[debs40]

Hi

I have been doing a PhD while the kids are young but that is now coming to an end.

I have been doing freelance work while doing the PhD. I'm a qualified Solicitor and I've worked for a number of major organisations, predominantly in the criminal/human rights fields.

My work has involved policy work, casework, research, speech writing, drafting etc

I would love to try and turn this into a business and a friend, who is a website designer, is going to do a website for me.

I wondered whether any of you guys had any expert tips or advice for starting up?

Thanks

hi debs - we've swapped emails in the past haven't we? I went freelance about 8 months ago - and have been busy ever since. when you say turning it into a business do you mean something more than freelancing? I've vaguely toyed with the idea but my main concern is that it would take me away from the substantive work - which is what I enjoy doing. having seen what's involved in running a medium set up (less than 10 staff) with which I currently work very closely I'm not sure setting up my own is what I want to do. too much time worrying about office space, employment contracts, computers, and - mostly - funds.

Hi,

A website can be a good idea as it can provide more information on your areas of expertise, provide a space for you to put case studies, and also for you to write articles on relevant topics, however it is only valuable if you can persuade current and potential clients to look at it.

A friend of mine who wanted to expand her freelance business (in charity law) produced a monthly article on hot topics in the news. She worked hard to identify 100 potential contacts who might be interested in her topics and set out a deliberate plan to cultivate this network. She has been building this up over the last 2 years and now has 60 regular contact organisations and is reaping the rewards of her hard work, with interesting contract opportunities.

hth.

Thanks not so clever - that is a great idea!

debs - this has made me think of an interesting but broader question about websites and marketing, and about being an individual vs a company. I'm going to start another thread - and see if we get interesting responses